
Whether you live in Ames, West Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs, Waterloo or any point in between, most applicants for Iowa disability benefits will have to testify at a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. While the idea of a legal hearing before a judge may be intimidating, there is no need to worry. In fact, I tell my Iowa disability clients to think of the Social Security disability benefits hearing as an opportunity. This is your chance to meet the person who will be deciding your claim, look him or her in the eye, and tell your story in your own words. To make the most of this opportunity, follow these three guidelines when speaking to the Administrative Law Judge at your Iowa disability benefits hearing: